Associations Incorporation Act under review

29/6/96

The State Government is reviewing the Associations Incorporation Act, which regulates the incorporation and affairs of societies, clubs and other non-profit organisations in Western Australia.

Fair Trading Minister Cheryl Edwardes said a number of associations had expressed the view that there were shortcomings in the Act which needed to be addressed.

"Currently there are 14,650 incorporated organisations which are affected by this legislation, so I expect considerable interest and a large number of submissions," Mrs Edwardes said.

"Among the major concerns expressed is that no annual return detailing office bearers and financial statements are required.

"Also, while the Act sets out what must be contained in an association's rules, there is nothing in the Act giving power to members to enforce those rules.

"It may be that members of associations do not want to change the Act, but I certainly want to hear their views before the Government considers any amendments."

Mrs Edwardes said the closing date for submissions would be September 30. The Ministry of Fair Trading would then provide a summary which would guide the Government in its review of the Act.

Copies of the current Act and regulations were available from the State Law Publisher, 10 William Street, Perth 6000.

Written submissions should be sent to the Ministry of Fair Trading (Business Names Office), 1st floor, 66 St George's Terrace, Perth.

Media contact: Diana Russell Coote 421 7777